#Japan #Tokyo #DFA Robotics #KEENON W3 #Beacapp

Transforming Hospital Operations with Robotics

DFA Robotics, a pioneering company in robotics solutions based in Minato, Tokyo, has announced the successful implementation of the delivery robot "KEENON W3" at Tokyo Jikei University Medical University Hospital. This marks a significant step in enhancing operational efficiency within healthcare settings.

The introduction of the W3 robot follows an extensive proof-of-concept trial conducted in collaboration with Beacapp, a company specializing in location-based services based in Chuo, Tokyo. By integrating the W3 with Beacapp's technology, healthcare staff movements were meticulously analyzed, resulting in a drastic reduction in transportation frequency and time for medical supplies and specimens.

Addressing the Challenges of Japan's Healthcare Environment

The Japanese healthcare system has traditionally relied on the long working hours of doctors and nurses. However, demographic shifts and advancements in medical technology are anticipated to further increase the workload on healthcare professionals. To address this, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare is expected to enforce a "Work Style Reform for Physicians" law in April 2024, aimed at promoting task shifts and better labor management.

The Tokyo Jikei University Medical University Hospital, with its extensive 664 beds and over 1,300 outpatient visits daily, has been facing challenges in securing qualified personnel due to its location, leading to a chronic staffing shortage.

DFA Robotics took the initiative to analyze the needs of the hospital and collaborated with Beacapp to deploy beacons that tracked the movement of nursing staff. This data illuminated the high frequency of transport tasks undertaken by healthcare personnel, revealing an opportunity to enhance their efficiency. By suggesting the deployment of delivery robots for essential transporting tasks, the trial aimed to maximize the time staff could devote to patient care.

Transformative Results from the Proof of Concept

The outcomes from the proof-of-concept trial were promising. The KEENON W3 successfully assumed the role of transporting samples and medications around the hospital's second floor, resulting in a notable decrease in the number of trips made by nursing aides. On average, the frequency of transports was reduced from 9.5 to 4.8 trips per day, while the average transport time was cut from 9 minutes and 39 seconds to just 4 minutes and 57 seconds.

This adaptation allowed nursing staff to redirect their focus back to essential caregiving tasks, contributing to a more efficient healthcare delivery environment that maintains high standards despite staffing challenges.

Future Endeavors in Healthcare Robotics

DFA Robotics intends to continue its efforts in employing robots for various indirect tasks such as transportation and cleaning within healthcare facilities. This strategy not only addresses the ongoing labor shortages but also aims to enhance overall productivity in the medical sector.

The collaboration with affiliated companies within the Change Group is set to accelerate the introduction of robotic solutions for myriad challenges across various domains.

Voices from the Implementing Facility

Dr. Kohei Takashita, Lecturer at the Advanced Medical Information Technology Research Department, noted, "In recent years, the rising costs of medical supplies and the shortage of personnel have severely impacted hospital operations. By utilizing robots to shift specific tasks, we can enhance care quality and manage our operational efficiencies. The implementation of the KEENON W3 has not only facilitated more patient interaction by alleviating the burden of transport tasks but has also fostered a positive atmosphere through its interaction with both patients and staff."

About KEENON W3

The KEENON W3, operated by DFA Robotics, is capable of carrying up to four items simultaneously. It features secure door access and integration with elevators for seamless transports across multiple floors.

For more information regarding the KEENON W3, visit DFA Robotics.

About DFA Robotics

Founded in 2017, DFA Robotics aims to revolutionize societal infrastructure through advanced robotics, enhancing the value of both people and businesses globally. As Japan faces a declining population and aging demographic, DFA Robotics aspires to position robots as facilitators of human potential, rather than replacements, delivering impactful robotics solutions tailored to societal challenges.

Through its endeavors in the healthcare sector, DFA Robotics is poised to advance the digital transformation of healthcare operations and enhance service delivery by integrating innovative robotic solutions.